Best free software for protecting your PC and your privacy

Posted: February 16, 2014, 6:30 am

Want to ensure that your PC and all of your files and data stay safe, secure and private – without breaking the bank? You’ll be pleased to know there are a number of free solutions out there. We have rounded up our favourite free security and privacy utilities that shield you against malware, protect your data at WiFi hotspots, encrypt your data.

1. Protect against Malware
Malware is the most dangerous threat that you will come across online. Viruses, Trojan horses, and other types of malware can do immeasurable damage to your PC, steal your private information and even turn your PC into a zombie that spews out spam or carries out an attacker’s commands. No need to be a victim though, Avast Free Antivirus will keep you safe. You don’t have to spend long with award-winning Avast to realise why it is one of the most popular security tools around. The program is simple to install; a straight forward interface makes it easy to use; a quick first scan should identify any potential threats on your PC, and this all has minimal impact on your system performance. Avast is a no hassle, set-and-forget utility.

2. Stay safe at hotspots
When you use a WiFi hotspot at a café, airport or other public location, your PC and your privacy are particularly vulnerable. In such places it is exceptionally easy for anyone in the area to snoop on your activities as you browse the Web. Guard your machine and your data with Hotspot Shield. This freebie does exactly what its name suggests. It protects you when you’re connected to a hotspot by encrypting all of your data packets. When you install it, make sure you decline the extra toolbars or else you will keep receiving annoying pop-ups.

3. Secure your PC and files
Finally, you will want to secure your PC itself – its contents as well as any passwords you’ve stored on it. TrueCrypt does just that so that you have peace of mind if you use cloud file-hosting services or loose your laptop. TrueCrypt lets you effortlessely encrypt files and folders, or your entire hard disk and then encrypt data on the fly as you use it. . Make sure you understand what encrypting your data does as it has implications on other things such as backups.

If you need some additional advice on which protection software is best for you, or need help with getting started with the software, get in touch with Tekkie Help on 81138682 and we can arrange a consultation.